Terrible Dilemma

[Auricula]

We have just been told that one of our cats ( Becks) has diabetes. He is a placid, loving cat and only 7yrs old. The vet says he has to have insulin injections twice a day 12 hrs apart. This will be virtually impossible to guarantee as he is an outdoor cat and we can never predict when he'll be in. Also, selfishly, it means we can never go away, or even out for a long day. Apparently, having these injections is the only treatment and means he could live for another 2 or 3 years. We feel so guilty and selfish, but are appalled that it means we can't go to see our family up country or go anywhere else for that matter. We couldn't put him in a cattery as he is claustrophobic and hates being shut in - even in the house for any length of time. We don't know what to do - has anyone any experience of feline diabetes?

[Rosefriend]

Sorry to hear that Auricula - it really is a dilemma.

I have friends that had a cat with Diabetes and also had to give injections. It started off OK but after a while the cat became frightened to death of the injections, scratching and biting etc and in the end they did the kindest thing and put him down. It certainly wasn't an easy decision for them but I think it was the best one in the circumstances.

RF

[Jasmine]

Oh Auricula
What did the vet think? He must be aware that Becks is an outdoor cat and will know the consequences of him not being back for his injections.
I know nothing about feline diabetes but am thinking what would happen if a person didn't have their jabs on time.
...and you don't have to feel selfish, animals are a huge tie and you are in a tricky position if you can't put him in a cattery.

[Auricula]

The vet just said he knew it would be a big problem for us but that we had to find a way round it as the injections had to be 12hrs apart. I've looked on relevant websites but most cats that get it are older and seem to be more urban - no one has mentioned a similar problem so we are stumped.

[Jasmine]

He must realise though that Becks isn't going to return reliably - and what if he has a cat hypo away from home?

[blodau]

Auricula, I'm really sorry to hear about your dilemma. I'm writing this as I wait to hear from our vet to see if I can go and pick up one of mine up after another series of tests to see why she keeps getting respiratory infections. I'm trying to imagine what I would do in your position.

The first thing is to stop feeling guilty. When you take on a pet, you do take on responsibility to make sure that they are well cared for, but you haven't given up your own needs at the same time. Wanting to see your family is perfectly legitimate.

It's a horrible decision to have to make and I do feel for you. Decide what you can reasonably accomplish. If it's going to be too difficult to ensure that Becks gets his medication, you may need to make the decision we all hate.

I'm sending you a virtual hug because it's the only thing I have to offer I wish there was more.

Blod

[Auricula]

Thanks Blod. Hope you get good news from your vet. We've written down some questions to ask tomorrow and we'll go from there

[Jilly]

Oh Auricula I'm so sorry to hear about Becks the only advice I can offer is my own experience. I kept one old cat going for about 4 years on drugs & numerous trips to the vets, but he was a gentle, timid old thing and was never the least bit bothered about going out, so being confined didn't bother him at all.
A second one was a real out door girl & I actually had her put to sleep as soon as she was diagnosed with cancer (even though the vet said it was treatable). We knew she would hate being confined and she got really stressed every time she had to have a worm tablet, so endless drugs would have just made her miserable.
What ever you decide to do, don't feel guilty, you know that you will only be doing what's best for Becks.

Lots of love
Jillyx

[Auricula]

Thanks Jilly, that's really comforting - he hates being confined at all

[Ladygardener]

Auricula I'm so sorry to hear your news.

[Auricula]

Thanks LG

[Auricula]

Feeling brighter today. Went to vets and the routine is noy quite as complicated as we feared...and the cost is bearable. The lady who looks after the cats while we are away says she will make extra visits to give him the injections and the local cattery say they will do them to ( at a last resort cos of his claustrophobia). We agreed with the vet to give it a try and see how things progress. He still may have to be put down if things do not go well and at best will only have 3 years but at least we have him for the present, and until he becomes distressed,iller or obviously not coping, we'll do what we can for him

[Jasmine]

That sounds like a really good way to approach it Auricula then you will always feel you did your very best for Becks.
Goodness me, kids, parents and pets - what a lot of worry they cause.

[MamIDdau]

I hope you manage to look after him easily. I'd be devastated if any of my 3 had to have something like that.

Much love xxxx

[carolann]

Sorry to hear about Becks but glad the news is a little better, like April I would be lost without any of mine.
for you both.
C.x

[Auricula]

to you all from Becks and myself My first try at injection tonight, it didn't look too difficult when the vet did it!! I know what you mean Jasmine....kids,parents,pets then old age.....but I suppose old age is preferable to the alternative

[Jasmine]

Absloutely ;D

Are you using an epi pen type injection Auricula?

[Auricula]

No - a regular disposable syringe. Apparently that's all you can be given. I have a phial of insulin and I draw off 1.5 mgs at a time ( where's me specs!!??) use the syringe and then put it aside to be taken to the vets for the sharps bin. I have a box of 24 syringes.........I always fancied being a doctor ;D

[Tig]

Good luck with it Auricula, I reckon I would have to scrape our Cat off the ceiling trying to deliver an injection - I get scratched to bits just putting Frontline spot on her neck

I think you are wonderful for trying your best for him, bless

[Auricula]

Thanks Tig - we'll do what we can, while he's in no pain nor discomfort Fortunately, he's very placid - unlike Posh, his sister

[JennyWrenn]

Oh what good news have been wondering what to post on here as not au fait with cats - dogs yes

When my dogs have their booster injections - a huge long needle - they never feel a thing - is this the same with cats if you inject in right place

After the injection maybe give Becks a small piece of something not had before like salmon - caviar as a treat then he/she will maybe get thru it and wait for yummy treat from Mummy

[Auricula]

Good idea Jenny ( perhaps hold back on the caviar ;D ) Apparently, it's a very thin needle so he shouldn't feel it..........if I do it correctly

[JennyWrenn]

I think you will get used to it

Well done

Think you can get packets of salmon bits

[Auricula]

[Jasmine]

You will be a whizz at it in no time Auricula.

[Ladygardener]

You'll soon get the hang of it Auricula. I'm so glad you've found a way around what's happening with Becks. I could just imagine how my cat Suki would be if I tried to give him an injection. Mind you I think he'd do anything for some tinned tuna.

[Auricula]

Well..........the first injection went ok, just hope it continues

[Dutchy]

Oh dear Auricula. I hope things continue to go well.
Have you considered giving him a little gift after every injection so it links in his catmind not just with the injection but also with something desirable?

[Auricula]

Thanks Dutchy - have bought a chicken so it can be shredded and used as "bait" ;D

[MamIDdau]

I think the "giving him a treat" after the injection thing is a good idea. Although, don't you have to watch what you eat when you're diabetic?! How do you know he's not scoffing other stuff while he's outside?! lol